About Empress Theatre
The Empress Theatre is a historic 1911-era performing arts venue located in downtown Vallejo, California (cinematreasures.org ) (www.eventsincalifornia.com ). Built by the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and designed by William A. Jones, it opened on Feb 14, 1912 as a lavish Beaux-Arts vaudeville house (originally ~1,100 seats with ornate painted ceilings and a pipe organ) (cinematreasures.org ) (www.flickr.com ). Over the decades it was renamed (Fox Senator, Crest, etc.) and eventually restored to its original name. Today it is Vallejo Landmark #17 (pcad.lib.washington.edu ). The Vallejo Center for the Arts (a nonprofit) operates the restored theater (reopened fully by 2008) as a community arts center. It seats roughly 470 people in the main auditorium (www.eventsincalifornia.com ), plus about 65 seats in an attached lounge space (the Marquee Club) at 324 Virginia Street (empresstheatre.org ). The Empress blends its historic charm (tickets site calls it “beautifully restored” with “state-of-the-art sound and lighting”) (empresstheatre.org ) with modern amenities, making it Vallejo’s premier live music and performance landmark.
Events and Programming
The Empress hosts a **wide variety of events** year-round. Its calendar includes concerts (blues, rock, jazz, folk, world music), dance, comedy shows, family programs, film screenings, lectures and more. It is home to local ensembles like the Vallejo Festival Orchestra and Vallejo Symphony (for example, a Mahler concert featuring mezzo-soprano Nikola Printz was billed there (www.vallejosun.com )), as well as visiting acts. The programming spans genres: jazz combos, R&B and soul bands, classic rock tribute bands, opera or chamber music concerts (e.g. New Century Chamber Orchestra (www.eventsincalifornia.com )), and independent films (one weekend schedule even screened a vintage film noir “Pitfall” introduced by film historian Eddie Muller (www.vallejosun.com )). Comedy is popular too – a recurring “Empress Uncensored” comedy night is held monthly in the Empress Lounge featuring Bay Area comics (empresstheatre.org ). The adjacent Empress Lounge (at 324 Virginia) also hosts regular free or low-cost events (the “Indie After Dark” monthly indie-music series, open-mic blues nights on Wednesdays, etc. (www.vallejosun.com ) (www.vallejosun.com )). Audiences love this local flavor – one reviewer called the Empress “a gem on Wednesday nights for the blues” (www.tripadvisor.ie ). In short, the theatre typically has shows almost every week, from headline concerts and orchestras to niche community events. Tickets are modestly priced (many starting around $20 (www.eventsincalifornia.com )), and sold in advance for larger shows. Family-friendly events (matinees, kids’ concerts) and discount rates are often offered for youth or seniors, reflecting the theater’s community mission.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets can be purchased through the Empress box office or online well before performances. In-person sales and will-call are handled at the theatre: the box office is open Tuesday–Saturday from 9:00 AM–1:00 PM (empresstheatre.org ), and it also opens around 1½–2 hours before each show for ticket purchases or pickups. While the theatre uses a ticketing service, you should not have to visit outside sites – just check the Empress website or call (during business hours) for available tickets. Popular shows do sell out, so it’s wise to buy early. In fact, local press notes for a recent Filipino music concert that “ticket sales have been brisk, so don’t hesitate to get yours” (www.vallejosun.com ). Membership in the Vallejo Center for the Arts offers perks: higher levels ($500+ annually) include 3-day advance ticket purchase and VIP seating at select events (empresstheatre.org ), which can help nab the best seats. Otherwise, general tickets range roughly from $20 up to $40–50 depending on the act (www.eventsincalifornia.com ). Last-minute door sales may be possible for events not listed as sold out, but plan on buying ahead. (Remember that all ages are welcome at shows, so there is no separate ticketing for children – just regular admission or discounted youth pricing if offered.)
Seating and Layout
The Empress has a traditional single-level auditorium with no upper balcony. (In fact, a 1930 remodel removed the original balcony and installed stadium-style seating (pcad.lib.washington.edu ).) All fixed seats are on a gently sloped floor facing the stage. According to event listings the theatre holds about 470 people (www.eventsincalifornia.com ). For side-by-side comparisons, imagine roughly row-by-row seating rather than a flat pit or tiered balconies. The best views and sound are typically in the middle-center of the orchestra section. (Because the floor is raked, even rear rows see the stage well.) Note that for some shows there may be a standing/dancing area in front of the stage. One reviewer actually advised that front-row seats can be obstructed by a dancing crowd on the dance floor (www.tripadvisor.ie ), so unless you want to be in the pit it may be better to choose a row a few seats back. Acoustically the theatre is generally quite good – a Valleyjoan praised its “very comfortable” seats and “good” sound (www.tripadvisor.ie ). All seating is reserved for ticket buyers (except for open-floor standing space at certain concerts). For accessibility, the front orchestra rows include a few wheelchair spots (with removable chairs or open spaces) (empresstheatre.org ), and companion seating is nearby. In summary: no upper deck, just one broad seating area. Center-orchestra rows a few back give a great balance of view and acoustics. (The small Empress Lounge bar has its own seating and stage for casual music nights, by contrast – see “Venue Layout” tips below.)
Getting There and Parking
The Empress Theatre’s address is 330 Virginia Street, Vallejo, CA 94590 (empresstheatre.org ), in the heart of downtown Vallejo near the waterfront. It’s literally only a few blocks from the Vallejo Ferry Terminal (a five-minute walk) (empresstheatre.org ), which is convenient if you’re coming in from San Francisco by ferry. (Note: San Francisco Bay Ferry operates year-round Vallejo–SF service, but the last outbound ferry is early evening – e.g. about 7:05 PM from Vallejo (vallejoferryschedule.com ) and 6:00 PM from SF (vallejoferryschedule.com ).) For commuters, the Vallejo Transit Center at 311 Sacramento St (just a block from the theatre) is the main hub for SolTrans buses – local routes 1–8 and the SolanoExpress Red/Yellow lines all stop there (www.soltrans.org ). SolanoExpress Red runs to San Francisco, Yellow to Sonoma – check schedules for service if using public transit. Vallejo does not have BART; the nearest Amtrak/Capitol Corridor stop is in Martinez (then a short bus or taxi ride). vallejoferry-schedule.com ). The Vallejo Transit Center lot has about 60 spaces (also $8/day) (www.soltrans.org ). Street parking in the neighborhood is metered or permit-based, so plan to feed a meter or use a pay machine if you park curbside. Rideshare or taxi drop-offs are easy – the curb along Virginia Street in front of the theatre serves as the normal drop-off point. (Several reviewers mention that there is “good parking available” and public transit access downtown (www.tripadvisor.ie ).) In short: park in the municipal lots (plan $8/daily) or garage downtown, or take the ferry/bus if practical. Leave extra time to walk from your car or transit stop to the theatre entrance.
Inside the Venue
Arrive early enough for check-in and refreshments – doors generally open 45–90 minutes before showtime. (For example, a typical 8:00 PM concert might have doors at 6:30 PM for bar service (www.vallejosun.com ).) The lobby is accessed via the historic main entrance on Virginia Street (wheelchair ramp provided). Expect minor security screening at the entrance, as with most theaters. Once inside, you’ll find a tidy lobby and concession area. The theatre offers a snack bar and drink counter: both beer and wine are sold (conforming to local laws) from the lobby concession stand and the adjacent Empress Lounge bar (empresstheatre.org ). A full bar (beer, wine, and cocktails) is also available in the Empress Lounge. (Per theater policy, outside food or alcohol is not allowed (empresstheatre.org ).) Many patrons enjoy grabbing a quick snack or coffee in the lobby before the show. is] very attractive” ([www.tripadvisor.ie ). Restrooms (including wheelchair-accessible stalls) are located in the lobby immediately outside the auditorium (empresstheatre.org ). A lost-&-found is handled through the box office if you misplace anything. Inside the hall, lighting and stage tech are modern, so expect clear sightlines to the stage from most seats. (Advanced lighting rigs with LED dimming and pro audio are in place – one review raves about the “state-of-the-art sound and lighting” after the restoration (empresstheatre.org ).) The theatre also offers assistive services: free FM listening headsets (and T-coil neckloops) can be borrowed at no charge from the house manager (with a photo ID deposit) (empresstheatre.org ), and accessible seating is available. Employees and volunteers are generally on hand to help guests find seats. empresstheatre.org ), and it is where many free or low-cost shows happen. Patrons often gather there before main events to enjoy drinks and socialize. If your show is in the Lounge (like a comedy night or indie band), you’ll enter through 324 Virginia and find table seating or bar stools around a small raised stage. Overall inside the Empress: expect a friendly, unpretentious vibe – many have noted you can “feel the energy of so much talent” on its stage (empresstheatre.org ). Just remember to have your e-ticket or printed ticket ready, as ushers will scan or collect tickets before entering the seating area.
Nearby Amenities
The Empress sits in the heart of Vallejo’s downtown cultural district. In the surrounding blocks you’ll find a range of dining and lodging options. Virginia Street and neighboring Georgia and Marin Streets have casual restaurants, cafes and bars – everything from pizza and Mexican joints to seafood and American bistros. For example, the Townhouse Cocktail Lounge (a bar and brewery) is just one block over (at 2nd & Georgia) and often popular before or after shows. TripAdvisor notes that nearby restaurants make a night out more convenient (www.eventsincalifornia.com ). If you want a sit-down meal, there are family-friendly cafes and higher-end eateries in walking distance; for a quick bite, downtown pubs and taquerias are plentiful.
What Makes This Venue Special
The Empress Theatre is beloved for its rich history and charming vintage character. Its architecture (Beaux-Arts with decorative murals and a classic proscenium) is rare in the region. For example, the original 1911 interior featured gold-leaf ceiling clouds and plush red-velvet seats (cinematreasures.org ), and even today the façade and proscenium arch carry that old-town elegance. The theater survived multiple eras – from roaring 20s vaudeville to mid-century film house – and its revival has become a point of pride. It was recognized as a Vallejo landmark in 1990 (pcad.lib.washington.edu ), and the 2000s restoration carefully preserved the spirit of an “American classic” while adding modern production gear. empresstheatre.org ), while another (a local) said they “just love the Empress lounge Wednesday nights!” for its fun, easy-going vibe (empresstheatre.org ). Community and tradition play a big role too: the theater is a gathering spot for Vallejo’s diverse neighborhoods. For instance, civic events have been held on its stage (one review recalls a centennial Filipino-American community celebration there (empresstheatre.org )), and it even hosts specialty concerts by iconic Bay Area groups (like The Ray Charles Project tribute or legendary songwriters). empresstheatre.org ), a national touring juggler, or a homegrown composer debut. The building’s elegance – restored box office lobby, vintage marquee, ornate balconies painted in 1950s style (www.flickr.com ) (cinematreasures.org ) – gives a taste of history that most modern venues lack. Both artists and audiences often comment on the good acoustics and comfortable seating (www.tripadvisor.ie ) (empresstheatre.org ). In sum, the Empress is special because it marries a classic theater’s ambience with a community-focused, variety-packed program. It feels like a slice of old Vallejo that still pulses with new creativity every night.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The Empress is ADA-compliant. The main entrance has a ramp, and several wheelchair spaces (with companion seats) are in the front orchestra (empresstheatre.org ). Accessible restrooms are in the lobby (empresstheatre.org ). Assistive listening FM headsets (and T-coil loops) are available free – just ask the House Manager for a headset and leave an ID as deposit (empresstheatre.org ). Service dogs are welcome; other pets are not allowed (empresstheatre.org ).
What to Bring (and Not): Dress is casual – most patrons wear jeans, nice shirts or theater attire. You may want earplugs if you are sensitive to loud bass (a reviewer noted very loud low end in one rock show (www.tripadvisor.ie )). Bring your photo ID if you plan to buy alcohol from the bar. Food and soft drinks are sold inside (snacks and sodas at concession, full bar in lounge), but do not bring in outside beverages or hard liquor (empresstheatre.org ). Small purses and non-bulky bags are fine, but large backpacks might be checked. Cameras without flash are usually allowed, though professional photo/video gear typically requires permission. Check with staff on cameras if unsure.
Arrival and Doors: Plan to arrive at least 30–45 minutes before showtime to park, pick up tickets, and get settled. Doors to the lounge or bar often open even earlier, so you can grab a drink (for example, many concerts admit lounge patrons an hour before the stage show as “happy hour” time (www.vallejosun.com )). Late seating is usually allowed only between pieces – if you’re late, slip in quietly at an intermission. Double-check your tickets against the theatre’s schedule; a few guests have been caught by a date/time mismatch on the website. (www.tripadvisor.ie ) (It’s safest to confirm via the official Empress calendar or box office in advance.)
Ages and Children: Everyone is welcome at the Empress (most events have no age restriction (empresstheatre.org )). That said, some late-night or comedy shows in the lounge may be 21+ if marketed that way, so verify age limits on the event listing. If bringing children, use caution during loud concerts or late shows. There is no special children’s play area; normal theater rules apply. Families often enjoy the daytime family and kid-friendly shows on offer.
Suggested Timing: A typical show runs around 2–3 hours (including intermission), so allow time if you’ll be on late-night ferry or bus. In any case, Vallejo is small: even after a late performance, most hotels and transport options are a short drive away. For evening runs, rideshare is a reliable way home (the drop-off/pick-up point is right in the block by Virginia Street).
How can I buy Empress Theatre tickets and what are the price ranges?
Tickets are sold through the Empress box office and website. The box office (330 Virginia St) is open Tue–Sat 9 AM–1 PM and opens ~90 minutes before shows (empresstheatre.org ). You can also buy in advance online from the Empress site or authorized outlets. Pricing varies: most concerts and shows start around $20 per ticket (www.eventsincalifornia.com ), with higher-profile acts or orchestra events running $30–$50. Finally, consider joining the Vallejo Center for the Arts membership, which offers perks like early ticket access and reserved seating (for example, $500/yr members get a 3-day advance purchase window) (empresstheatre.org ).
What is the seating layout and capacity of Empress Theatre?
The Empress has a single-level auditorium (no balcony) arranged in stadium-style rows. It seats roughly 470 people (www.eventsincalifornia.com ). Because the floor slopes up from the stage, most seats have a clear view. For best sound and sight-lines, center-section seats a few rows back from the front are ideal. Be cautious with front-row seats at rock or dance concerts – dancers on the floor can block you (www.tripadvisor.ie ). Wheelchair seating is available in the orchestra. (empresstheatre.org )
How do I get to Empress Theatre and where can I park?
The theatre address is 330 Virginia St, Vallejo. It’s in downtown, just 3 blocks from the Vallejo Ferry Terminal (empresstheatre.org ). By car, take I-80 to the Georgia/Curtola exit and drive a few blocks. For parking, the closest lots are the Vallejo Ferry parking area: multiple 24/7 pay lots (e.g. at Mare Island Way & Georgia) charge about $8/day (vallejoferry-schedule.com ). There’s also a large ferry parking garage at 415 Santa Clara St for $8/day (vallejoferry-schedule.com ). The Vallejo Transit Center (311 Sacramento St) has a paid lot ($8/day (www.soltrans.org )) and is only one block walk from the theatre. Street parking nearby is limited and metered, so your best bet is the city lots. Public transit is good: many SolTrans buses stop at Sacramento & Marin (the Transit Center) just a block away (www.soltrans.org ). If coming from San Francisco, the Mare Island ferry terminal is a short walk (3 blocks) and runs until early evening (last departures around 7–8 PM (vallejoferryschedule.com ) (vallejoferryschedule.com )). After shows, rideshare or taxi pickups in front of the theatre are convenient.
Is the Empress Theatre accessible for wheelchairs and hearing-impaired guests?
Yes. The main entrance has wheelchair access and there are several wheelchair spaces in the orchestra seating (empresstheatre.org ). Accessible restrooms are right in the lobby (empresstheatre.org ). Assistive listening is provided via free FM headsets and T-coil neckloops (available with I.D. deposit) for anyone who needs them (empresstheatre.org ). The Empress welcomes service animals; other pets are not allowed (empresstheatre.org ). If you have specific mobility or hearing needs, you can contact the theatre box office or manager on duty for assistance (staff are accustomed to accommodating all guests).
Are children allowed at shows, and is there a dress code?
The Empress does not have an age restriction – all ages are welcome at performances (empresstheatre.org ). If a show has special restrictions (for example adult-only comedy in the Lounge) it will be noted on the event listing. Dress code is casual to smart-casual. Most patrons wear street clothes or nice jeans and shirts; there’s no formal dress requirement. Just be prepared for a live performance environment: comfortable clothes and shoes are wise, especially if you plan to dance or stand.
Does Empress Theatre have a bar or food concessions?
Yes. The lobby has a concession stand selling snacks, soft drinks and beer/wine. The adjoining Empress Lounge (Marquee Club) is a full bar where you can buy beer, wine and mixed drinks. This bar often opens before shows for cocktails. You must be 21+ to purchase alcohol inside. No outside food or alcohol is permitted (empresstheatre.org ). (Tip: some special events have offered grilled foods or taco specials in the lounge, but generally plan to buy refreshments on-site.)
How early should I arrive, and where do I check in?
Most shows advise arriving 30–45 minutes before curtain to find parking and your seat. If booking online, check in at the theatre box office or lobby desk (the ticket desk is near the main lobby). The house usually opens about an hour before a main theatre show (for example, a 7:30 PM concert might have doors at 6:30 (www.vallejosun.com )). Empress Uncensored or Lounge events open similarly before start time at 324 Virginia. Plan to have your printed or electronic tickets ready – staff will scan them as you enter the hall. Latecomers are seated at intermission if possible. In short: give yourself enough time to park, use the restroom, and grab a concession before the performance begins.
Is there a coat check or storage for bags?
The Empress does not list a formal coat check counter, so it’s best to keep personal items with you in the auditorium. There is limited space under seats, so for large coats you might fold them and hold them on your lap or put them at your feet during the show. Small bags and purses are fine, but security may ask you to open larger backpacks. If you have valuables, note where you sit or leave coats with friends; exercise normal caution. Items left behind can be retrieved at the box office later (they keep a small lost-and-found).
What’s the Empress Lounge (Marquee Club) and how is it different?
The Empress Lounge (at 324 Virginia St) is a smaller bar/theater space attached to the main theater. It has its own stage, seating (~65 seats) and bar. Lighter acts – like local bands, jazz trios, indie festivals, or comedy nights – happen there. Often admission to Lounge shows is free or low-cost (empresstheatre.org ), making it a casual alternative to the main hall. The main difference is scale: the Lounge is intimate and informal, whereas the main theater is a grand 470-seat venue. If your tickets say “Empress Lounge” or list the 324 Virginia address, head to the Marquee Club door on that block (the main lobby staff can guide you).
Does Empress Theatre host movies or film events?
Yes. In addition to live performances, the Empress occasionally hosts film screenings (often classic or independent films). For example, the theater has run “film noir” series and local documentary premieres. The hall’s screen and projection equipment are used for scheduled movie nights. (These are announced in the event listings.) Note that some film events may have free or discounted admission, as they are often community outreach nights. (www.vallejosun.com )
Are there any annual or recurring events at the Empress?
Several series recur. The lounge hosts an ongoing monthly “Indie After Dark” showcase on (typically) the third Thursday (www.vallejosun.com ). The main Theatre sees roughly seasonal series: local symphony concerts each season, occasional film series (like holiday classics), and a summer/fall music series with regional acts. Comedy shows (under “Empress Uncensored”) run periodically. However, there isn’t a fixed “annual festival” – dates and series change from year to year. Your best bet is to check the Empress calendar for updates. Many local orgs (Vallejo Festival Orchestra, community theater groups, etc.) stage performances there regularly.
What should I know about Empress Theatre’s policies (no food/drink, smoking, etc)?
Empress policies are fairly standard. Smoking or vaping is banned indoors (empresstheatre.org ). As noted, no outside alcohol is allowed (empresstheatre.org ). Outside food is generally discouraged (though some events do allow light snacks if concession isn’t available) – plan to buy anything edible on site. The theatre asks guests to follow their Code of Conduct and local laws (empresstheatre.org ), so be courteous. Generally, photography with flash is not permitted during performances. Dress neatly but comfortably (jeans and shirts are fine). Bag searches at the door are rare, but large containers may be inspected. If you’re unsure about an item (like a selfie-stick or tripod), it’s safest to leave it at home or ask management. Age restrictions: most events are all-ages (empresstheatre.org ) (children welcome), but always double-check if you’re bringing a minor to a late-night or 21+ ticketed show.
Does the Empress Theatre have free Wi-Fi or phone charging?
The Empress does not advertise public Wi-Fi in the theater or lounge, so plan to use cellular data if you need connectivity. There are no special charging stations provided. (A harmless tip: turn your phone to silent during shows.)
